The Vancouver Rise have welcomed new additions to their team. This week, the Northern Super League club signed two defenders in preparation for a crucial game against the Halifax Tides on Saturday. Chantelle Swaby, previously with Leicester City in the Women’s Super League, and Kaela Hansen, who played for NSL side AFC Toronto, have joined the Rise to enhance the team’s defensive lineup.
Head coach Anja Heiner-Moller expressed optimism about the new recruits, highlighting Swaby’s physical prowess and confidence on the field, as well as Hansen’s eagerness to contribute and adapt to the team’s playing style.
Swaby, aged 28, brings a wealth of experience from playing in various leagues, including the National Women’s Soccer League, the Scottish Women’s Premier League, and France’s top division. She emphasized her ability to maintain composure in intense game situations and provide vocal leadership from the backline.
Hansen, aged 26, views her move to the Rise as a return to her roots in Burnaby, B.C., expressing excitement about playing in front of a hometown crowd and reuniting with her family. The signings come after Vancouver bid farewell to Mariah Lee, who retired to pursue a legal education in New York.
Additionally, Vancouver loaned goalkeeper Kirstin Tynan to the Halifax Tides for the remainder of the season. With the Rise aiming for a playoff spot, currently trailing Halifax by five points, forward Jessica De Fillippo emphasized the team’s determination to showcase their competitiveness and secure a postseason berth.